COLOMBO: (ePRESS) – Musaeus College’s junior swimming team proved that quality can outshine quantity by claiming their first-ever Junior National title at the National and Junior National Short Course Swimming Championship, organized by the Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union (SLASU), concluded at the Isipathana College Swimming Pool Complex in Colombo, leaving the Musaeus team’s triumph stamped in history.
The eight-member junior squad displayed grit and brilliance, amassing an impressive 392 points. Their breathtaking performance dethroned long-time champions Lyceum International School Wattala, who finished with 378 points. They also outshone Lyceum International School Gampaha (339), Ghefari Dulpandan Swim School (239), and a visiting team from the Maldives (211).
This historic win was adorned with six gold medals, four silvers, and a bronze. In a dazzling display of talent, the team shattered four Junior National records—one individual and three relay events. This victory marked the school’s largest achievement in the championship’s history.
Leading this remarkable feat was 13-year-old sensation Rushalee Dissanayake, whose extraordinary performance electrified the five-day competition. Rushalee clinched three individual golds in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m Freestyle events, setting a Junior National record in the 400m Freestyle. She further anchored the relay team to establish three more record-breaking performances. Her silvers in the 200m Backstroke and 400m Individual Medley highlighted her versatility and endurance.
“Rushalee’s contributions were the cornerstone of our success. Her discipline and spirit inspire the entire team,” remarked Teacher-in-Charge Iresha de Silva.
While Rushalee dazzled, her teammates shone brightly as well. Keyara Ranepura claimed a silver in the 1500m Freestyle, and Sandithi Ekanayake, Senuki de Silva, and Naduli Gamage added vital points with their top eight finishes.
The relay team, featuring Rushalee, Sandithi, Senuki, and Naduli, was unstoppable. Together, they rewrote Junior National records in the 4x50m Freestyle, 4x100m Freestyle, and 4x50m Medley Relay events, bagging three golds and a silver.
For Musaeus College, this triumph was more than just a championship win—it was the birth of a legacy. Their underdog story has inspired countless young swimmers to believe in the power of teamwork, passion, and continuous commitment.
At the heart of Musaeus College’s historic victory were three key figures whose leadership and unwavering dedication inspired the entire team. Teacher-in-Charge Iresha de Silva, along with senior swimming captain Vinuki Perera and vice-captain Kalashi Ranabahu, played a pivotal role in guiding their teammates toward success.
Their commitment to the team was more than just about coaching; it was about believing in their swimmers, pushing them to challenge their limits, and making the impossible seem possible. With their support, the team was able to rise above the pressure and achieve greatness, marking a turning point in the school’s swimming history.
As the final whistle blew, the small but mighty team from Rosmead Place School stood victorious, their smiles lighting up the poolside. It was a moment that spoke of dreams fulfilled and new ones sparked.
